From: Scott Anderson, Clackamas County Public & Government Affairs, 503-655-8752

09-28-17

Media and Interested Parties

Bat in Clackamas County tests positive for rabies

The Oregon Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory confirmed that a bat from Clackamas County tested positive for rabies on Sept. 21.

The bat was found at a private residence in Clackamas County. There was no bite or direct exposure to the bat that would put any involved people at risk for getting rabies from this bat.

The homeowner’s dog is up-to-date on rabies vaccination, but is still being closely monitored for 45 days per public health protocol in case of any unwitnessed exposures. If the dog had not been up-to-date on its vaccinations, more extreme monitoring or even euthanasia would need to be considered.

“Because there is a risk of bats transmitting rabies to people and their pets, it is important to avoid touching animals that appear sick and to keep pets (including dogs, cats, and ferrets) current on their rabies vaccinations,” said Dr. Sarah Present, Clackamas County Health Officer.

Public health officials recommends the following steps to safeguard community members, families and pets:

Vaccinate your pets, including animals that are being fed on the property, like feral cats. However, feeding wild or feral animals is not recommended.

Do not handle a live or dead bat. Call a professional wildlife removal service. A bat seen during daylight hours is likely ill and should be avoided.

If you are scratched or bitten by a bat, immediately wash the affected area with soap and running water for at least five minutes and seek medical attention. If the bat that caused the bite wound is available, it may be considered for rabies testing if the head is still intact. Contact the Clackamas County Infectious Disease Control and Prevention Program at 503-655-8411 to report the bite and discuss bat testing.